Some of you may be wondering what exactly is Yoga. Yoga can be translated to the word "union". Yoga unites our body, mind and soul. Yoga originated in India over 5,000 years ago. The Yoga postures (also known as asanas) were performed in order to prepare the body for seated meditation which is typically done on the floor in a cross-legged position. The postures helped stretch and relax the muscles of the body in preparation for sitting for an extended period of time during a meditation practice. However, in North America Yoga has become more of a physical exercise.
There are many different styles of Yoga, although the majority are based on Hatha Yoga. A Hatha Yoga class usually consists of a warm up, breath exercises (pranayama), a series of Yoga postures from standing, seated, supine (on your back) and prone (on your stomach) which allow you to increase your strength, flexibility, focus and balance. A class will finish with a relaxation period (savasana)including meditation techniques to help calm the mind.
The benefits that Yoga provides for you are plentiful. Yoga can help with stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, blood pressure, and digestion to name a few. It is also a great way to become or stay physically active as it is much easier on your body then a traditional exercise regimen.
There are hundreds of Yoga postures from easier ones to the more challenging. What I love most about Yoga is that there is always something new to learn and ways to challenge yourself even further.
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